Upcycling: Recycling that makes old things new again

Photo Credit: Kidsday illustration / Laurie Montroy

Many people think of new ways to support our environment and help recycle. Guess what? Recycling just got a whole lot more fun! There is a new method of recycling called “upcycling.” Upcycling is reusing an old product and transforming it into something new with better quality. For example, you can upcycle an old T-shirt by adding studs, beads and cutting the T-shirt to your liking. There’s no such thing as a bad idea.

Upcycling can be used for pretty much anything. You can upcycle clothes, water bottles, light bulbs, tools — you name it. People have had so many good ideas in the past, like turning light bulbs into candles and turning cans into pencil holders. What makes upcycling even better is that it doesn’t require buying anything. You can gather raw materials from around your house.

Upcycling has changed the world in so many ways. It has created a new way to recycle items and has caused this generation to think on the creative side. Even social media has given upcycling a good reputation. Instagram and Pinterest are full of amazing upcycling ideas. The best thing about upcycling is that you get to help our environment.